Legislation and regulation

The UK water sector needs an effective and proportionate legislative framework to deliver excellent and affordable services. The sector is determined to deliver top-quality water that is safe, clean and readily available to use at home and in businesses.

The water sector works under legislation and standards set by UK governments and regulators, the European Union and even global organisations like the World Health Organisation. These regulators ensure that the UK water sector is controlled by well-run businesses that behave responsibly for both their employees and the communities they serve.

The key areas of legislation and regulation for water companies concern water quality, the environment, prices and public health.

The UK water sector works under a rapidly-changing environment, with a range of pressures including adapting to climate change, demographic change and population growth and social and economic pressures on customers. However, it is essential that the sector has an effective and proportionate legislative framework to deliver excellent and affordable services.

Water UK continues to work on behalf of the UK water sector on key priorities and developments relating to the EU.

Domestically, Water UK provides forums that draw on expertise from across the industry to help share good practice and analyse the implications of developing regulation.

In the UK our drinking water is of the highest standard, at a record level of quality and among the best in the world. We can turn on our taps with the certainty of a safe, clean and refreshing supply.

The UK water supply is overseen by independent water regulators in England and Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland. These regulators ensure that water companies consider the needs and interests of consumers in their work, whilst maintaining efficient and economically sustainable practice.